Episodes
In this episode, Dr. John Neufeld addresses a common criticism of Christians who emphasize eternal hope. While some argue that faith should focus on societal transformation, Dr. John reminds us that true Christian living is rooted in anticipation of the coming Kingdom of God. Drawing from Jesus' teachings in Luke, he emphasizes the importance of being prepared for Christ's return, highlighting the need to live with expectancy and purpose in a world filled with distractions. Tune in as he explores how our focus on eternity can shape our actions in the present.The Unwavering Journey: In this ...
In today's episode, Dr. John Neufeld delves into the topic of worry, noting that "worry is overindulging our fears." As he explores Luke 12:22-34, he emphasizes how anxiety drains our energy and distracts us from fulfilling our God-given responsibilities. Dr. John offers insights into how worry impacts our health and spiritual life, contrasting it with Jesus’ command to trust God for our needs. Tune in as he reveals practical ways to banish anxiety and cultivate a deeper faith in God's provision.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages, Dr. John unpacks Luke 9-13, exploring Jesus’...
In today's episode, Dr. John explores a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry as He confronts the Pharisees while teaching His disciples about the dangers of covetousness. A man in the crowd seeks Jesus' help in settling an inheritance dispute, prompting a powerful lesson on the true value of life beyond material possessions. Jesus emphasizes that life is not defined by wealth, urging us to guard against greed and prioritize our relationship with God. Join Dr. John as he unpacks this crucial teaching, reminding us to focus on what truly matters.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages...
In this episode, Dr. John explores Jesus' challenging teachings from Luke 12:4-12, where He instructs us to fear God rather than people. Together, we'll delve into what it truly means to fear God and address the seeming contradiction with 1 John 4:18, which reminds us that perfect love casts out fear. We'll also confront the serious topic of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit and the eternal consequences of our choices. Join Dr. John as he unpacks these profound truths and encourages us to consider their implications for our faith and boldness in proclaiming Christ.The Unwavering Journey: In...
In today’s episode, Dr. John examines the Pharisees and their interactions with Jesus, focusing on why their rigid interpretations of the law clashed with Christ’s message of grace. Discover how the Pharisees' emphasis on rule-following often overshadowed the deeper principles of love and mercy that Jesus came to embody. By exploring specific encounters between Jesus and the Pharisees, this episode highlights the transformative power of grace and the challenge of letting go of legalism.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages, Dr. John unpacks Luke 9-13, exploring Jesus’ unwaverin...
In this episode, we explore the theme of patience through the lens of James 1:2-4, where we’re encouraged to embrace trials as opportunities for growth, emphasizing that our challenges can lead to spiritual maturity and completion. Dr. John highlights practical steps to cultivate patience in our daily lives, reminding us of the importance of trusting God's timing.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages, Dr. John unpacks Luke 9-13, exploring Jesus’ unwavering journey as He sets his face toward Jerusalem, fully aware of the sacrifice ahead. With every step, he moves closer to fulfi...
In a world where positive messages dominate, condemnation is often unwelcome, even within the church. Jesus, however, presents a powerful contrast as He speaks about the necessity of recognizing the weight of our sin and the profound gift of salvation. While some may honor Mary, Jesus redirects our focus to the importance of obedience to God's Word. In this episode, we explore how Jesus confronts a crowd seeking signs, emphasizing that true faith requires more than spectacle; it demands a heart aligned with Scripture and a life of faithful obedience.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of...
In a world marked by sin and suffering, we often feel far from the peace of Eden. Today, Dr. John reflects on the first coming of Jesus, a powerful demonstration of God’s healing and authority over evil. As we face contemporary challenges, it's essential to confront the doubts surrounding Christ's power. Together, we'll examine Jesus' compelling responses to those who question His miracles, revealing the undeniable truth of God's Kingdom at work in our broken world.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages, Dr. John unpacks Luke 9-13, exploring Jesus’ unwavering journey as He sets ...
In today's episode, we tackle a profound question: Does prayer really make a difference? Many may have prayed with deep urgency, only to feel discouraged when their prayers seem unanswered. Through Jesus' teaching in Luke 11:5-13, Dr. John explores the importance of boldness in prayer, reminding us that God welcomes our requests and has the power to provide for our needs. Join us as we uncover the meaning behind persistent prayer and the overflowing resources available to us through our Heavenly Father.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages, Dr. John unpacks Luke 9-13, exploring...
In this episode, Dr. John explores the transformative power of prayer in our lives. He discusses how a vibrant prayer life can deepen our relationship with God, provide strength in difficult times, and cultivate a heart of gratitude. Discover practical insights on making prayer an integral part of your daily routine and experience the peace that comes from connecting with God through prayer.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages, Dr. John unpacks Luke 9-13, exploring Jesus’ unwavering journey as He sets his face toward Jerusalem, fully aware of the sacrifice ahead. With every st...
In this episode, Dr. John unpacks Luke 10:38–42, where Martha and Mary host Jesus. While Martha busily prepares, Mary chooses to sit and listen at Jesus' feet. When Martha asks Jesus to intervene, He gently reminds her that prioritizing time with Him is what truly matters. This story invites reflection on the importance of nurturing our relationship with Jesus amid our daily tasks.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages, Dr. John unpacks Luke 9-13, exploring Jesus’ unwavering journey as He sets his face toward Jerusalem, fully aware of the sacrifice ahead. With every step, he mov...
In this episode, we look at the lawyer’s question, “What do I need to do to get eternal life?” Jesus’ answer shows us what the law really means and our call to love God and our neighbors. Through the story of the Good Samaritan, we examine what it means to love our neighbors and care for others in a divided world. We’ll explore the important question of eternal life and how our actions can show our faith.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages, Dr. John unpacks Luke 9-13, exploring Jesus’ unwavering journey as He sets his face toward Jerusalem, fully aware of the sacrifice ahead....
Today, as we look at Luke 10:17-24, Dr. John explores what the disciples went through, focusing on Jesus’ words, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see.” This passage shows the special authority given to the disciples and the joy of knowing their names are written in heaven. It reminds us of how Jesus' work continues to impact our lives today.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages, Dr. John unpacks Luke 9-13, exploring Jesus’ unwavering journey as He sets his face toward Jerusalem, fully aware of the sacrifice ahead. With every step, he moves closer to fulfilling God’s ulti...
In this message on Luke 10, we are reminded that despite the darkness in the world, the harvest is still plentiful. Dr. John emphasizes the urgency to share the gospel, encouraging us to step into our calling as workers in His Kingdom. It’s a message of hope and purpose that challenges us to be bold in spreading the light of Christ.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages, Dr. John unpacks Luke 9-13, exploring Jesus’ unwavering journey as He sets his face toward Jerusalem, fully aware of the sacrifice ahead. With every step, he moves closer to fulfilling God’s ultimate plan of sal...
In this episode, Dr. John points us to Luke 9:51, where Jesus "set His face to go to Jerusalem." This moment marks a crucial turning point in Jesus' ministry. Even in the face of opposition, Jesus remained steadfast in His journey toward the cross. Dr. John highlights how this decision by Jesus serves as both a challenge and an encouragement for us to remain faithful to God’s calling, even when the road ahead is difficult.The Unwavering Journey: In this series of messages, Dr. John unpacks Luke 9-13, exploring Jesus’ unwavering journey as He sets his face toward Jerusalem, fully aware of th...
In this episode, we delve into how the Holy Spirit guides us in daily life, based on Ephesians 4:25-32. Discover how the Spirit encourages us to embrace honesty, manage our anger, work diligently, speak uplifting words, and extend grace to others. Each principle is aimed at helping us live out our faith in practical ways, reflecting the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Explore how these spiritual resources can help you grow and make a positive impact on those around you.Empowered Living Vol 2: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ h...
In today's episode, we explore the imagery of clothing in the Christian life, as presented in Ephesians 4:17-24. Believers are called to "put off" the old self, characterized by sinful behaviors, and "put on" the new self, created in the likeness of God. This transformation reflects a deeper, counter-cultural calling to live in righteousness and holiness, rejecting the values of the world. As we walk in this new identity, we are reminded of the ongoing renewal that comes through a life surrendered to Christ.Empowered Living Vol 2: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ...
In this episode, Dr. John reflects on the incredible gifts Christ offers to His followers. We'll explore how God bestows individual grace gifts to each of us, raises up leaders to equip the church, and nurtures spiritual maturity within the body of Christ. Discover how these gifts are meant to shape our lives and guide us in our walk with Christ.Empowered Living Vol 2: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ has made available to them. They feel impoverished despite Christ's riches. They feel powerless despite Jesus' strength. They feel alone and without...
Just as moving to a new country requires understanding its customs, our new life in Christ requires us to embody humility, gentleness, patience, and love. In today’s message, we explore these four character traits as described by Paul in Ephesians 4:1–6. Discover how these virtues foster unity within the church and reflect our shared calling in Christ.Empowered Living Vol 2: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ has made available to them. They feel impoverished despite Christ's riches. They feel powerless despite Jesus' strength. They feel alone and w...
When we think about worship, many envision singing, whether with a songbook in hand or arms lifted in praise. While singing is often a significant part of worship, it’s fundamentally a celebration of God. Worship transcends mere rituals; it’s an exuberant expression of our joy and awe for who God is and what He has done. As Paul writes in Ephesians 3:20-21, our worship should reflect the immeasurable greatness of God's power and His ability to do far more than we could ask or imagine.Empowered Living Vol 2: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ has mad...
We turn to the Lord's Prayer as template for our own prayers. It is how Jesus taught us to pray. We do well to also look at Paul's prayer for the Ephesian church. It calls upon God to equip His people to perceive His power for them and His infinite love upon them, that they might know Jesus Christ and be filled to the fullness of God. This is God's prayer for the church. This is God's intent for each one of us. Empowered Living Vol 2: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ has made available to them. They feel impoverished despite Christ's riches. They ...
For many, the church has a diminished role in our society. They pass a church building on the corner and wonder what relevance it has. That is not God's perspective. Paul has spoken of the mystery of a new body created in Jesus Christ - Jew and Gentile together. That mystery might remain theoretical if not for the church. The Church is the pillar of truth, the declaration of God's Word, an extension of Jesus' grace and the embodiment of God's loving community. Through the Church, the world glimpses the wisdom of God in this great mystery.Empowered Living Vol 2: Too many Christians live unce...
We are accustomed to think of mystery as something to be solved. If we have enough clues and good deduction, we can figure it out. But Paul uses the word "mystery” in a different sense. This mystery cannot be discovered, it must be revealed. Listen as Dr. John discusses a great mystery, revealed to Paul and stewarded by his missional efforts. God is building a people for Himself, Jew and Gentiles together. We are part of God's great mystery.Empowered Living Vol 2: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ has made available to them. They feel impoverished ...
We all have experienced the awkwardness of standing alone at a social gathering, sitting by yourself at the school lunch table or looking around a room unable to name anyone there. We feel alone without significant connections. Paul teaches that in Christ, we are never strangers. We are citizens in God's nation, embraced by His family and become a temple of collective worship. The grace of God does more than forgive. It shapes us as God's Household. Empowered Living Vol 2: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ has made available to them. They feel impo...
It seems self-evident that our society is polarized. We are divided by our politics, hold opposing moral standards, struggle with race relations and regard those with different positions as the enemy. Harmony and peace are reduced to mere words. But God has made something new. Jesus not only draws us close to God, but to one another. The Body of Christ is the beginning of a new humanity. Peace is possible in Jesus Christ.Empowered Living Vol 2: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ has made available to them. They feel impoverished despite Christ's ric...
Grace can be a prayer before a meal. It can describe the beauty of a ballet move or be clemency for a loan. It can be the tile of royalty or the name of someone you love. We have so many ways to speak of grace because grace has so many expressions. Yet nothing exceeds or exhausts the grace found in our Lord. Today Dr. John speaks of the free favour of the Father released through faith in the Son, resulting in a righteous life forever. This is God's doing. This is the expression of grace. Empowered Living Vol 1: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ h...
In Ephesians 2, Paul delivers the sobering truth – news as bad as it gets. Every one of us is born dead - not just weakened, impoverished or disadvantaged, but dead. But then Paul reveals the good news, the best news imaginable. Listen as Dr. John directs us to the only hope we have for eternal life. God, who is rich in mercy and love, makes us alive through Jesus Christ. Revel in the joy and hope He gives.Empowered Living Vol 1: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ has made available to them. They feel impoverished despite Christ's riches. They feel ...
What's humanity's problem? It seems self-evident that a problem exists between us (war, greed, violence, apathy). It is also evident that there is a problem between humanity and God (atheism, rebellion). Either way, many believe the problem can be fixed with effort and education. They are wrong. God makes it clear what our problem is. We are dead. No amount of instruction, training, motivation or resources will improve the dead. God, who gives life, is our only hope. Empowered Living Vol 1: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ has made available to th...
Power has various measurements. Physical strength, economic resources, technological leadership, intellectual skill - but our materialistic world often ignores the greater expression of power - spiritual. Paul prays that Christians will recognize the power God has extended to believers through Jesus Christ. Nothing and no one can surpass the power of God for us. Empowered Living Vol 1: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ has made available to them. They feel impoverished despite Christ's riches. They feel powerless despite Jesus' strength. They feel...
It is one thing to be enriched. It is another to be aware of those riches and live by them. God has already enriched us in Jesus Christ. Paul now prays that we might be aware of the depth of those riches. Dr. John reminds us that we need God's wisdom and revelation to see and understand how God's riches transform our living.Empowered Living Vol 1: Too many Christians live uncertain of who they are in Christ, or what Christ has made available to them. They feel impoverished despite Christ's riches. They feel powerless despite Jesus' strength. They feel alone and without purpose despite being...